Sandra Louise Atherton

Sandra Louise Atherton, born on April 20, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on March 29, 2026, in Blue Springs, Missouri at the age of 84. She was a beloved mother, daughter, grandmother, sister and friend.

Sandra dedicated the early years of her life to raising her eight children. As her children grew older, Sandra shared her passion for cooking by working in the kitchens at Country House Nursing Home and Bridge Cafe for several years. Her dedication extended beyond these roles, as she also had a hand in maintaining and cleaning various local businesses.

Known for her warm and uplifting personality, she was often described as the glue that held her family together—the go-to person whose humor and strength brought comfort and joy to those around her. Family gatherings were made special by her homemade noodles, a dish fondly remembered by all who shared in those moments.

Sandra found peace in jigsaw puzzles, watching the hummingbirds feed, quilting, and embroidery, often crafting a quilted blanket for each new grandchild. She created lasting gifts filled with love and care. Sandra also enjoyed traveling. Together with her late husband, Harry, she cherished long road trips to visit family and explore different parts of the United States, and she always had a liking for train rides.

Sandra’s life was one of devotion—to her family, her community, and the simple joys that brought meaning to each day. She is remembered not only for her talents and hard work but for the uplifting and steady presence she was to all who knew her.

Sandra is survived by her children, Jerry Atherton (Charlotte), Glenda Taylor (Tim), Brenda Rothenberger (Harold), Curtis Atherton (Trudy), Terry Atherton (Toni), Cynthia Sharp (William) and Scott Atherton; 3 sisters, 1 brother, 24 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Atherton; infant son, Larry Atherton; parents, Leonard "Thomas" and Edna (Romig) Burlingame; granddaughter, Stephanie Atherton; great-granddaughter, Precious Thomas; great-grandson, Yzekiel Taylor and 2 brothers.

Family, friends, and loved ones will gather to honor Sandra's memory with a visitation on April 8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Speaks Suburban Chapel, located at 18020 East 39th St S in Independence, Missouri. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m. on the same day at the chapel, and burial will take place at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens.